Holidays are not just about exchanging gifts, but rather cherishing moments with the ones we hold dear. So, how can one make the most of the festive spirit without focusing on gift exchanges?
Holidays bring with them joy and festive shopping. Of course, exchanging gifts is an integral part, but we all understand that the season is much more about embracing the opportunity to enjoy quality time with our loved ones. A chance to remind them how special they are to us, and it doesn’t have to be done solely through gifts. Hence, here are some engaging tips for you to make the most of the holiday season without relying on presents.
POTLUCK
Nothing beats a good old-fashioned potluck to bask in the holiday spirit with your loved ones. Irrespective of the holiday you’re celebrating, a potluck-style gathering easily lightens the budget. With the holiday season spread over a month or so, there’s ample time for multiple gatherings. Thanks to our loved ones’ enthusiasm for potlucks, this not only aids all of us financially but also allows for a display of our cooking creativity while being less laborious. Thus, making your festive get-togethers potluck-style just seems to hit the right chords.
For a successful potluck, you can pre-decide on your dishes, and come up with additional dishes that pair well with yours. Next, distribute a blank sign-up sheet for the suggested items, leaving some blank entries for your guests to contribute their unique dishes if they wish. The final potluck will offer a variety of complementary dishes along with a taste of individual creativity—what a win-win!
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
The autumn/winter season is an excellent time to explore the outdoors and what your local area has to offer. With more free time on your hands during the holidays, it serves as a brilliant chance to indulge outdoor activities—most of which come at no cost. Some holiday-season outdoor adventures may include downtown ice skating, hiking at state parks, bonfires, discovering local cycle trails, playing in the park with the kids, or simply driving around town to admire the holiday decorations and tree lighting ceremonies. Be creative, holidays aren’t meant to be restricted indoors. You’ll find plenty of outdoor fun awaits you and the best part? No gifts needed!
VOLUNTEERING TOGETHER
One experience that trumps everything else during the holiday season is volunteering together as a group. Needs for volunteering multiply during the holidays, as soup kitchens, shelters, and families struggling with their finances seek assistance. What better than to assemble your loved ones for some community service during the season of giving? There are likely several volunteering opportunities nearby, the only challenge might be opting for one! Here are a few that could strike a chord:
– Food shuttles
– Homeless shelters
– Soup kitchens
– Rescue and care centers for animals
– Habitat for Humanity—great if you love getting hands-on
– United Way— offers a wide variety of volunteering alternatives
Remember to start your search for volunteering spots early, as some organizations have an orientation process, though exceptions can be made in times of need.
CELEBRATING THE HOLIDAY SEASON TOGETHER
Ultimately, there are countless ways to spread the holiday cheer and cherish your loved ones during the holidays without the necessity of gifts. The focus of the holidays is to spend quality time with friends and family, reminding them how much they mean to us.
Some of our favorite methods include:
– Hosting potluck feasts
– Planning outdoor adventures
– Volunteering together to further spread the festive spirit
Next time you’re planning for the holiday season and want to steer clear from a gift-centric celebration, hopefully, our suggestions can serve as inspiration. We’d love to know some of your gift-less ways of spending the holiday season together.
